Bedford's Witch Way 5K, KidsK raise money for 2 good causes

BEDFORD — Goblins, skeletons, superheroes and other assorted creatures will be on the run at the fourth annual Witch Way to the 5K and KidsK, sponsored by Ross A. Lurgio Middle School.

The race on Saturday, Oct. 26, will raise money for technology equipment for the school and benefit a second good cause.

“New to this year’s event is a give-back campaign. The Lurgio staff and students in their commitment to community outreach will be giving back 10 percent net race proceeds to Camp Allen of Bedford, a nonprofit camp for children and adults with cognitive and physical disabilities,” said Suzanne Withee, of the race planning committee.

The Kids Fun Run kicks off at 10:30 a.m. and the 5K run/walk starts at 11 a.m., at Lurgio School. The kids course is one lap around the school and finishes at the start line; each finisher will receive medals.

Awards will be presented to the top 5K finishers in each age group, the three best costumes, plus special awards going to the Bedford school with the most participants and any Lurgio student who beats the principal. Race results will be posted at Cool Running.com.

The 5K race has grown over the years from 300 racers and walkers in the first year, raising $16,000; last year 565 took part, raising $24,000.

This year’s race will start with a costume parade before the 5K. The race is open to all ages, and you don’t have to be a Bedford student to participate.

Principal Ed Joyce said this year, the money raised will go toward purchasing Chrome Book Cloud-based computers, as students file their papers to teachers electronically.

“It puts useful technology in the students’ hands,” he said.

Mary Constance, executive director of Camp Allen, is grateful to the schools and the community.

“The people of Bedford are so generous. The town has opened their arms over the past couple of years. We’re so grateful to be part of such a great community,” said Constance.

The money from the Witch Way to the 5K and KidsK will be used for the Adopt-a-Camper program, named in honor of camper Amie Goodwin, who died about five years ago.

“She was in her 40s when she passed away. She was the most giving person who didn’t want anyone to know. She wanted people to think she was tough,” said Constance.

The Adopt-a-Camper program provides camperships for people who cannot afford to attend Camp Allen.

The cost of the 5K race is $25 through noon on Oct. 25, and after noon through race day registration is $30. The cost of the kids run is $5. T-shirts are available for an additional $10.

All participants of the Witch Way to the 5K Run/Walk will be eligible to enter a raffle to win gift cards, gift certificates to local restaurants, and baskets, donated by local businesses and race sponsors.